Good genes will carry you through to your 50s without major health issues. After 50, the effects of how you lived your youth will start to show. The physical independence in your golden years depends on how well you take of yourself in the years prior.

My grandmother was still walking on the threadmill until her death at 86. She was able to keep up with us when we take trips (hence no one had a problem with taking her to places) and she was still mentally sharped. My other grandmother lives by herself with only a little assistance from my parents at 76 and walks around her neighborhood every morning. But most impressive of all, is my good friend’s mom, who still lifts weights at 79. Her grandmother recently passed away at 114! Since we all have to age, I rather still be able to have my phyiscally independence in my 80s than in a nursing home.